A new rule aims to clarify accessibility requirements to help state and local DOTs upgrade their facilities more quickly to meet ADA standards.

The U.S. Department of Transportation has issued finalized guidelines for accessibility on public transit, reports Dan Zukowski in Smart Cities Dive.
According to the article, “The rule applies only to new or rebuilt public transit stops and shelters in the public right-of-way, including boarding areas, pedestrian access paths, fare vending machines and signage.”
The rule aims to create a set of uniform guidelines to help state and local DOTs understand accessibility needs and how to implement changes. “The 2021 infrastructure law made $1.75 billion available to state and local governments to help fund projects that repair, modify or retrofit public transportation rail stations for accessibility. In addition, DOT recently worked with Amtrak to increase accessibility at some of its train stations.”
Recently, USDOT has also issued recommendations for making electric vehicle charging stations accessible and improving accessibility on airplanes.
FULL STORY: US DOT issues final rule on accessibility standards for transit riders

Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.

North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.

Using Old Oil and Gas Wells for Green Energy Storage
Penn State researchers have found that repurposing abandoned oil and gas wells for geothermal-assisted compressed-air energy storage can boost efficiency, reduce environmental risks, and support clean energy and job transitions.

Santa Barbara Could Build Housing on County Land
County supervisors moved forward a proposal to build workforce housing on two county-owned parcels.

San Mateo Formally Opposes Freeway Project
The city council will send a letter to Caltrans urging the agency to reconsider a plan to expand the 101 through the city of San Mateo.

A Bronx Community Fights to Have its Voice Heard
After organizing and giving input for decades, the community around the Kingsbridge Armory might actually see it redeveloped — and they want to continue to have a say in how it goes.
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